(1) Reclamation should be completed within 2 years after the completion of mining operations, exclusive of a growing season required to ensure establishment of vegetation. For purposes of this section, completion of reclamation occurs when initial revegetation is completed and not at the time of final release of the reclamation area. For the purpose of s. 378.208, the schedule for complete reclamation is as prescribed in paragraphs (a)-(e).(a) For the period July 1, 1975, to December 31, 1980, for existing mines or the first 5-year period of mining for new mines, reclamation may not be required, and any reclamation that is completed must be credited forward.
(b) For the period January 1, 1981, to December 31, 1985, for existing mines or the second 5-year period of mining for new mines, reclamation of acres mined must be completed at the rate of an acreage equivalent of 15 percent of the acres mined during the period July 1, 1975, to December 31, 1980, or the immediately preceding 5-year period, as appropriate. Reclamation in excess of the required percentage must be credited forward.
(c) For the period January 1, 1986, to December 31, 1990, for existing mines or the third 5-year period of mining for new mines, reclamation of acres mined must be completed at the rate of an acreage equivalent of 60 percent of the acres mined during the period January 1, 1981, to December 31, 1985, or the immediately preceding 5-year period, as appropriate. Reclamation in excess of the required percentage must be credited forward.
(d) For the period January 1, 1991, to December 31, 1995, for existing mines or the fourth 5-year period of mining for new mines, reclamation of acres mined must be completed at the rate of an acreage equivalent of 75 percent of the acres mined during the period January 1, 1986, to December 31, 1990, or the immediately preceding 5-year period, as appropriate. Reclamation in excess of the required percentage must be credited forward.
(e) For the period January 1, 1996, to December 31, 2000, for existing mines or the fifth 5-year period of mining for new mines, and each 5-year period thereafter, reclamation of acres mined must be completed at the rate of an acreage equivalent of 100 percent of acres mined during the immediately preceding 5-year period. Reclamation in excess of the required percentage must be credited forward.
